VP/general counsel, graphic designer join Conway Chamber

To meet growing organizational needs, the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce has added a part-time graphic designer and a full-time attorney to its staff.

Kara Darling, Graphic Designer

Kara Darling began her new position as graphic designer on Jan. 21. A Florida native, Darling is a graduate of Full Sail University and has more than 10 years of advertising-agency experience. She has also served as creative director for the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute.

Throughout her career, Darling has designed projects for local and national clients from various industries, particularly nonprofit organizations and small businesses. She has received five ADDY® Awards from the Central Arkansas chapter of the American Advertising Federation and a Service Industry Advertising Award.

“Kara’s creativity, experience and attention to detail have already made her an asset to our team,” said Jamie Gates, senior vice president. “Having a skilled graphic designer on staff will ensure that materials from the Chamber and our partner organizations are high-quality and professional.”

Darling is the owner of Kara Darling Creative, a virtual, marketing services firm. She resides in Little Rock with her husband, Justin, and daughter, Bowen.

Luke Ferguson, Senior Vice President/General Counsel

Luke Ferguson joined the Chamber and Conway Development Corporation on Feb. 3 as senior vice president/general counsel. The Faulkner County native attended high school in Greenbrier and obtained a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and history from the University of Central Arkansas.

Ferguson went on to earn his Juris Doctor from the William H. Bowen School of Law in May 2008 and became licensed to practice law in Arkansas later that year. He worked at a private law practice in Conway and most recently served as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in the Twentieth Judicial District, which includes Faulkner County.

Ferguson will be responsible for contract review and negotiation, risk management, and human resources. He will also assist with economic development activities, including the development of Central Landing. Brad Lacy, president and CEO of the Chamber and Conway Development Corporation, said having an attorney on staff will be beneficial as the organizations continue to grow.

“Luke is a strategic addition to our team. As events like Toad Suck Daze continue to grow and as we become involved in complex projects like Central Landing, it is helpful to have legal knowledge on staff,” Lacy said. “We also have the opportunity to gain efficiencies as we move all human resource responsibilities to him. We are excited to have Luke on board.”

Ferguson resides in Springhill with his wife, Jessica. He said it has been exciting to witness the economic growth and increased opportunities in Conway and the surrounding area.

“I’m honored to be working with the Chamber and CDC and hope to personally contribute to the progress these organizations will continue to foster in Conway,” he said.